Protecting Your New Hampshire Home from Natural Disasters: A Comprehensive Guide

Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, leaving homeowners vulnerable to property damage and personal risk. In New Hampshire,...

Suzanne Damon
August 20th, 2024
3 min read

Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, leaving homeowners vulnerable to property damage and personal risk. In New Hampshire, severe weather events such as hurricanes, flooding, and winter storms can pose significant threats. By taking proactive steps to prepare your home, you can minimize potential damage and ensure the safety of your loved ones. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential measures to protect your property against various natural disasters.

Create an Emergency Kit

One of the first steps in disaster preparedness is assembling an emergency kit. This kit should include:

Non-perishable food and water for at least 72 hours
First aid supplies
Flashlights and extra batteries
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Important documents in a waterproof container
Cash and credit cards
Prescription medications
Personal hygiene items

Develop an Evacuation Plan

Having a well-thought-out evacuation plan is crucial for ensuring your family's safety during a natural disaster. Your plan should include:

Multiple evacuation routes from your home
A designated meeting place for household members
Contact information for local emergency services
A list of important phone numbers and addresses

Secure Your Home's Structure

Reinforcing your home's structure can significantly reduce damage from natural disasters:

Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows
Secure loose roof shingles and repair any existing damage
Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home
Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage
Anchor outdoor furniture and objects that could become projectiles

Protect Against Flooding

Flooding is a serious concern in certain areas of New Hampshire. For homes in flood-prone regions, consider these preventive measures:

Install backflow valves on sewer and septic tank lines
Elevate your water heater, electric panel, and other utilities
Apply waterproof sealants to basement walls
Install a sump pump with battery backup

Prepare for Power Outages

Extended power outages often accompany natural disasters. To stay prepared:

Invest in a portable generator and maintain an adequate fuel supply
Install surge protectors to safeguard electronic devices
Keep a supply of batteries for flashlights and other essential devices
Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection

Review and Update Insurance Coverage

Ensure your homeowner's insurance policy adequately covers potential natural disasters in your area:

Review your policy annually and adjust coverage as needed
Consider additional flood or earthquake insurance if necessary
Document your belongings with photos or videos for insurance claims
Store important documents in a fireproof and waterproof safe

Stay Informed

Keeping yourself informed about potential threats is crucial:

Sign up for local emergency alerts and warning systems
Follow local news and weather reports during high-risk periods
Familiarize yourself with your community's emergency plans and evacuation routes

By implementing these preparedness measures, you can significantly reduce the impact of natural disasters on your home and family. Remember, the key to effective disaster preparedness is planning ahead and staying informed. Take the time to assess your home's vulnerabilities and address them before disaster strikes. Your proactive approach today can make all the difference in safeguarding your property and loved ones tomorrow.

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About the author

Suzanne Damon

603-493-5561

Partnering with a real estate agent you can trust, who has the proven experience, knowledge and negotiating skills to succeed, is as priceless as the home you’re buying or selling. With over 30 years of exceeding expectations in residential sales, Suzanne Damon is an unparalleled expert and advisor when it comes to your real estate needs. Suzanne’s extensive experience and proven track record as a buyer and listing agent, investment advisor, property management and marketing specialist have earned her coveted recognition as a leader in the nation. The Wall Street Journal and Barron’s Business Review have ranked her as a top-producing Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist for her outstanding level of service, and ability to produce results. Suzanne currently ranks in the top 10% of agents in New Hampshire and heads a talented full-time staff that assists her. The most important measure of success, however, is the reputation she enjoys with her clients, who reward her excellence with ongoing repeat and referral business. Known for her unique attentive approach and “client-first” philosophy, Suzanne embodies all the skills and qualities required of an outstanding real estate professional. The integrity, in-depth market knowledge, marketing savvy, expert negotiating and quality network she brings each client and deal are the hallmarks of how she works. Putting clients first also means being accountable, accessible and responsive. Whether you are buying or selling a home in the Manchester, Bedford, Goffstown, Hooksett, Londonderry, Auburn or Candia areas, Suzanne is at your side protecting your best interest and helping achieve your goals. Prestigious industry affiliations and accomplishments also set Suzanne apart. She is a designated REALTOR member of the Greater Manchester/Nashua Board of REALTORS, a member of the New Hampshire Women’s Council of REALTORS, and recipient of the prestigious ABR, CLMHS, and CRS designations. Suzanne has trained intensively in various facets of real estate, from financing and legal matters to appraisal and taxation. She also founded two thriving organizations: her own brokerage company in Hooksett, NH which she managed and sold to a large franchise, and DAMON HOMES, LLC, managed by her husband and son, which develops raw land for enhancement of the community. Personally, Suzanne has been married to an incredible man for over 32 years, with whom she raised three wonderful children. Their close family spends as much time together as possible and loves to travel when time allows.